Should psychologists have prescribing privileges?The debate over the right of clinical psychologists to prescribe psychoactive medications is certainly not new to the scene. In fact, the debate spans the past two decades, with strong arguments at each end of the spectrum. While opponents question, among other things, the qualifications of psychologists, advocates point out the important public needs that are currently not being met in our mental health system (Lavoie & Barone, 2006). Although the issue of prescribing privileges for psychologists goes back many years and has many arguments on both sides, I believe the evidence presents a clear and obvious solution on the subject. Based on research articles and reviews in this area of ​​study, I find that new standards for prescribing privileges would be of substantial benefit to mental health professionals, both psychologists and psychiatrists. Prescribing privileges in today's world would essentially expand public access and availability of mental health professionals who have the authority to prescribe (Lavoie & Fleet, 2002). We have already seen many changes in the field of psychology, and these have brought new opportunities and roles for psychologists, not to mention additional benefits and comprehensive new services introduced to the public. In his publication, Responding to Society's Needs: Prescription Privileges for Psychologists, in the Journal Of Clinical Psychology, Norfleet emphasizes the need to continue this trend into our future and strongly advocates that prescribing privileges be part of the equation. The author clearly outlines the importance of these advances in the field of stress psychology...... middle of article ......ss the nation today. References From Nelsky, GY (1996) . The case against prescribing privileges for psychologists. American Psychologist, 51(3), 207-212. doi:10.1037/0003-066X.51.3.207Heiby, E.M. (2002). Prescribing privileges for psychologists: can we reconcile divergent points of view?. Journal Of Clinical Psychology, 58(6), 589-597. Lavoie, KL and Barone, S. (2006). Prescribing privileges for psychologists: A comprehensive review and critical analysis of current issues and controversies. CNS Drugs, 20(1), 51-66. Lavoie, KL and Fleet, RP (2002). Should psychologists have prescribing privileges? An examination of the debate over prescription privilege for psychiatrists. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 47(5), 443. Norfleet, M. (2002). Meeting the needs of society: prescribing privileges for psychologists. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 58(6), 599-610.